Penn State one example of bigger college problems

In the decade since Gee decried the crisis of conscience and integrity in the world of commercialized intercollegiate athletics as a revolution, little has been done.

The hope that Penn State's cover-up will awaken coaches and college presidents was dashed when the BCS contrived to increase revenue further at the expense of the student-athletes who generate those funds. Big-time college football is a world where money speaks louder than morality.

At the turn of the 20th century, college football faced a similar crisis based on a disquieting record of injuries and deaths. President Roosevelt intervened.

Congress should intervene today and hold hearings to get to the bottom of this culture of cover-up, with its disregard for educational values and student welfare. Those hearings, together with the work of groups like the Knight Commission, could save big-time football from further crises that might lead to the death of big-time college football.

Rodney K. Smith is a former college president and director of the Center for Sports Law and Policy at Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego.